The families of a British couple murdered on the final day of their honeymoon in the Caribbean have launched a memorial fund in their name.

The families of a British couple murdered on the final day of their honeymoon in the Caribbean have launched a memorial fund in their name.

Trainee physiotherapist Ben Mullany and his new bride Catherine, a qualified doctor, were shot at a luxury hotel on the island on Antigua in July.

Mrs Mullany died instantly and her husband died from a severe head injury days after what is believed to have been a botched robbery.

A public service for the newlyweds, from Rhos, near Swansea, south Wales, is being held at Llandaff Cathedral, Cardiff, at midday next Wednesday.

Members of the grieving families spoke publicly for the first time yesterday since the tragic double shooting. They revealed they had set up the Mullany Fund to support prospective medical students and physiotherapists and keep the couple's dreams alive.

Ben's brother, Adam Mullany, 23, speaking on behalf of the families, said: "Cath and Ben dreamed of a married life caring for others in the local community - Cath as a doctor and Ben as a physiotherapist.

"Cath and Ben's dreams were cut short by their murder on the last day of their honeymoon in Antigua in 2008.

"The Mullany Fund has been launched by the family and friends of Cath and Ben to support UK students wishing to study medicine or physiotherapy.

"As a family, we have lost two beloved members. The Mullany Fund will help us to preserve their memories and ensure that their dreams live on."

"While we will never replace Cath and Ben, this fund will help others to fill their shoes and continue the work that they had started."

Mrs Mullany's family added: "Cath enjoyed an idyllic childhood on the family farm. She decided at a very young age that she wanted to be a doctor.

"Her enthusiasm, love of life, sense of fun, broad smile and infectious laugh touched many lives."